Massive Project
By Melinda L. Lucas
Work is underway to make needed repairs and improvements on the exterior of the Aztec Theater, a major renovation project that is expected to cost in the neighborhood of $200,000, according to Aztec of Albany board president John Caldwell.
Board members made the decision earlier this year that a “complete makeover” was needed to prevent further water damage to the theater, which is nearing 100 years old.
Caldwell, whose parents Shirley and Clifton Caldwell were instrumental in the massive 1990s restoration of the Aztec, explained that the paint will be stripped off, the stucco repaired, and all the old mortar cut out and replaced.
He added that a planter that had been added to the patio area has been removed because it has been holding water against the building.
John Thach of Brazos Restotration and Waterproofing is heading up the Aztec project, first brought to Albany by Ann Harwood, another board member, to make stucco repairs at her home just a few steps east of the theater.
After he had successfully solved the problems at her house, Harwood showed Thach the Aztec, about half of which is below ground level.
“For a number of years, we’ve had some issues with water seepage,” said board treasurer Robert Dacus. “Over the years, dirt has built up and our foundation is under grade.”
Thach’s Waxahachie-based firm specializes in waterproofing and restoration of buildings, including a number of courthouses and the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas.
“In a few months, I think we will all see what the exterior of the theater looked like in 1927,” said Harwood. “All of the design modifications will remain as they are, but the integrity of the brick and the stucco will be restored.”
According to Caldwell, board members are still looking for clues about the original color of the stucco, including examination of the building itself as the historical plaster is uncovered.
In addition to replacing bricks and repairing the stucco, Thach’s four-man crew will dig out around the foundation and apply a special sealant to prevent water seepage.
“Our goal is to fix the theater for the next generation,” Dacus said. “This is going to be a massive job, and we anticipate that it will take more than four months to finish.”
Dacus said the interior of the building is in good shape.
“We’ve done a lot of work in there over the last few years,” he said. “It’s just time to get the exterior caught up.”
The Aztec is owned by the City of Albany, but city funds are not used for operations or repairs, and board members are planning to launch a fundraising effort in the next few weeks.
In the meantime, patrons may donate to the project.
Checks can be made out to the Aztec of Albany and mailed to the City of Albany, PO Box 3248, Albany TX 76430 or given to any board member.
Contributions may be in memory or honor of others and will be acknowledged.
